Locust Grove Estate

1200-1550
Archaeological research has revealed a distinct woodland culture that thrived in the Lower Susquehanna Valley in the Late Woodland Period from approximately A.D. 1200 to A.D. 1550. These early residents of the Susquehanna River's banks and territory farther inland are known as the Shenks Ferry Indians. They got their name from the location of their archaeological discovery in the 1950s.  Shenks Ferry Indians generally lived in small hamlets along the river and inland along the river's main tributaries.  Source: “Along the Susquehanna, A Virtual Exhibit”; Lancaster County's Historical Society; Lancaster, PA; LancasterHistory.org, 2010.

About 1500
This is thought to be the approximate time a small group of Shenk Ferry People built and occupied a small double stockaded village near the mouth of the Conoy Creek.  In may have been inhabited until about 1550.  The Haldeman Mansion is located within the stockade. Source: Susquehanna's Indians, By Barry C. Kent, PA Historical & Museum Commission, 1989.

About 1575
The Susquehannock Indians began to aggressively replace the established Shenks Ferry Indians in the Lower Susquehanna River Valley. The tribe's first contact with European settlers came in 1608 when Captain John Smith explored the Chesapeake Bay and met sixty Susquehannock warriors.  European contact grew substantially and by the 1640s the Susquehannocks found themselves in an advantageous position as participants in the booming fur trade.  Source: “Along the Susquehanna, A Virtual Exhibit”; Lancaster County's Historical Society; Lancaster, PA; LancasterHistory.org, 2010.

1625-1645
Suggested dates when there was thought to be a sizeable Susquehannock village at the site of the former Billmeyer limestone quarry less than a mile below Locust Grove Estate, along the east bank of the Susquehanna River.  Source: Susquehanna's Indians, By Barry C. Kent, PA Historical & Museum Com., 1989. Pages 342-345.

1650
By the 1650s, the Susquehannocks found themselves surrounded by enemies – the Iroquois to the north and increasing European pressure to the south. The power of the Susquehannocks suffered after a smallpox epidemic decimated the tribe and, by the 1670s, the few remaining Susquehannocks fled to a new home in Maryland or were absorbed into the Iroquois tribe.  Source: “Along the Susquehanna, A Virtual Exhibit”; Lancaster County's Historical Society; Lancaster, PA; LancasterHistory.org, 2010.

1682
Chester County, one of three original Pennsylvania counties, was created by William Penn.  It became the administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

1712
Conestoga Township created within Chester County.  It became the "local" administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

About 1718
A Conoy Indian Town was established on a prominent point of land on the south side of Conoy Creek a short distance from its mouth. In 1970 when archeological investigations were carried out, parts of the sites were separately owned by Vernon Hixon and J. E. Baker Co.  S.S. Haldeman (1812-1880), who lived literally on one corner of the Conoy Cemetery, collected (artifacts) on the village area in the mid-1800's. Source: Susquehanna's Indians, By Barry C. Kent, PA Hist. & Museum Comm., 1989, p. 391.   It is thought the Conoys arrived overtime, not all at once, and that they were a refugee group with members of various tribes relocating to the site.  "Conoy Indian Town & Peter Bezaillion", David H. Landis, Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol 37, No. 5, Lancaster, PA, 1933.  The Conoy site at Bainbridge is of the Refugee Phase, after the Beaver Wars and the departure/demise of the Susquehannocks.  The village’s composition probably included a mix of Seneca, displaced Algonquin groups from the eastern shore of Maryland and Delaware, a few whites who had intermarried as well as a few Susquehannocks.  Estimates place the population at about 130.  Source: Susquehanna's Indians, By Barry C. Kent, PA Hist. & Museum Comm., 1989, p. 401.

20 May 1719
On this date, a marauding party of Iroquois stopped at Conoy Town.  Source: Annals of the Susquehannocks, by Frank Eshleman, Lancaster, Pa., 1908, Page 239.  "In 1719, Conoy Town, we learn, was a halting-point for warriors of the Five Nations, as they returned north from marauds against the Catawba of Virginia and the Carolinas."  Source: Names which the Lenni Lenape or Delaware Indians gave to rivers, streams and localities, within the states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia: with their significations; William Cornelius Reichel; H.T. Clauder, printer, 1872; Page 22.

Sep 1719
The Indian traders Peter Bezaillion (wife Martha), James LeTort, and Moses Combe (Martha's brother) were the first to have land surveyed close by the mouth of the Conoy Creek.  All three tracts were about 1.3 miles or more to the south of the creek's mouth, along the river.  Source: Records of the Land Office; WARRANTEE TOWNSHIP MAPS {series #17.522}; Pennsylvania State Archives; Harrisburg, PA.

1720
West Conestoga Township created from Conestoga Township, both still within Chester County. West Conestoga Township included land west of Pequea Creek. West Conestoga became the "local" administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

1720
Peter's Road, an early Indian Trade path, named after its founder Peter Bezaillion, is established/recognized about this time.  "Conoy Indian Town & Peter Bezaillion", David H. Landis, Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol 37, No. 5, Lancaster, PA, 1933.  "It (Peter's Road) was the route of the Indians and Indian Traders and trains of pack horses carrying the freight of the Indian trade, and the main artery between Philadelphia and the west by way of (future location of) Logan’s ferry in Donegal.  This was later known as Galbraith’s ferry.” Source: Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol. 37, No. 5, Page 135.  Old Peter’s Road reported as branching north from Downingtown, following old roads passing thru Ridgeville (Stackstown) crossing the   Conoy creek at Erb’s mill, then on past Conoy town and up the river shore to Logan’s ferry and then from there the route led on up to Paxtang.  Source: Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol. 37, No. 5, Page 134.

Jul 1722
Governor Keith held a council with the Indians at Conoy Town, in Donegal township. There were present at this time James Mitchell and James LeTort, the Indian traders with the chiefs of the Conestogas, the Shawanese and the Conoys, and seven chief men of the Nanticokes; and the former treaty of friendship with the English was renewed.  Source: Conoy Indian Town & Peter Bezaillion", David H. Landis, Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol. 37, No. 5, Lancaster, PA, 1933, Page 121.

1729
Lancaster County formed from Chester County.  Donegal Township created.   It became the "local" administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

1 Mar 1734
James Logan receives a patent to operate a ferry on the river, to the immediate north of John Galbraith's (1714-1768) future patent.  Source: Conoy Indian Town & Peter Bezaillion", David H. Landis, Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol. 37, No. 5, Lancaster, PA, 1933.

1738
Thomas Wilkins, son of Robert Wilkins an Indian Trader, bought a farm at Conoy Creek and leased the ferry of James Logan.  The western side of the ferry crossed the lower end of an island owned by Joshua Lowe. Consequently, the ferry crossed diagonally in front of the Haldeman Mansion. Source: A History of Lancaster County by H.M.J. Klein, Ph.D., 1926.  Thomas Wilkins died before Joshua Lowe received title to the lower end of the island.  Thomas Wilkins' will was probated 6 Mar 1746 (Lancaster County, PA Will Book J, Page 333).  Thomas Cox granted the lower end of the island to Joshua Lowe 2 Nov 1748 (Lancaster County Deed Book A, Page 39).  Thomas Cox had the island tract surveyed 19 Sep 1748 (A-70-171).  Today, the upper end of the island is known as Brenner Island and the lower end as Lows Island.

28 Oct 1738
John Galbraith, Jr. (1714-1769) takes out land warrant for 440 acres & allowances from the William Penn Family that spans the mouth of the Conoy Creek and borders on the Susquehanna River.  The tract extended about one mile east of the Conoy Creek mouth, as the crow flies, to abt present day Stackstown, where Peter's Road crossed the creek, near Patrick Campbell's Tavern.   Source: Warrant No. 90, Warrant Registers 1733-1957, Page 74, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Bureau of Archives and History.

11 Apr 1739
John Galbraith (1714-1768) surveys eastern portion of his warranted tract (250 acres + allowances). This survey did not include the land on which the Haldeman Mansion was built, as the remaining portion of warrant, bordering on Susquehanna (land encompassing the Conoy Indian town), was reserved for the use of the Proprietors, i.e., the William Penn Family. Source: Survey Book A, Page 106, William Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Bureau of Archives and History.

Aug 1742
In  August 1742 it was reported to the Lancaster Court (2 D. 24) that a road begins (was laid out) at Logan's Ferry on the Susquehanna and proceeds almost due east by a line bulging northward about a mile and a half, to Conoy Creek, passing John Galbraith's (1714-1768) old field on the way; then onward 3 and 2/3 miles to the Donegal (Presbyterian) Church. The road extended further to Mount Joy.  The cutting of this road was first requested by inhabitants of Donegal Township in May 1739.  On that date the road was requested to begin on the Susquehanna at Davenport’s plantation, land, which Logan had actually patented in  March of 1739. Source: Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Volume 26, No. 1; Lancaster, PA; 1922; page 58.

1743
Conoy Indians moved north, vacating their village at the mouth of the Conoy Creek. Source: "Colonial Records of Pennsylvania" by Elbert Hubbard, Page 72, cites letter from the Conoy Chief Old Sack.

29 Jul 1744
John Galbraith (1714-1768) surveys his warranted land again, this time the full amount, measuring 440 acres & allowances. Source: Survey Book A12, Page 107, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, Bureau of Archives and History.  This second survey included the land on which the Haldeman Mansion was built and the land were the Conoy Indian Town had been located, as well as the double stockade of the Shenk Ferry People.

30 Jul 1744*
John Galbraith (1714-1768) patented the full 440 acres & allowances surveyed. Source: Patent Book A, Volume 11, Page 368, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Bureau of Archives and History.

1 July 1749
Conoy Indians request compensation for Conoy Town lands. Source: Minutes of the Provincial Council of the Province of Pennsylvania, Volume 5, December 14, 1745 to March 20, 1754; Theo Fenn & Company; Harrisburg, PA, 1851; Pages 388-394.

12 Apr 1756
John Galbraith (1714-1768) & wife Dorcas sell 54 of their 440 acres to Conrad Wolff.  This is the portion of Galbraith's warrant on which Nissley Vineyards is located today.  Where Peter's Road crossed the Conoy Creek.  (See Lancaster County Deed Book S, Page 419.)

29 Dec 1757*
John Galbraith (1714-1768) and his wife Dorcas granted 383 acres + allowances unto John's Uncle James Galbraith (1703-1786).  This conveyance and the metes & bounds are mentioned in Lancaster County, PA Deed Book D, Page 455.  James paid 1,200 pounds for the tract. According to Lancaster County Deed Book N Page 11 John leased back part of the property when he sold it James Galbraith.

8 Mar 1760*
James Galbraith (1703-1786) & wife Elizabeth (nee Bertram), of Lancaster County transfer 383 acres + allowances to Patrick Work of Lancaster County for 1,200 pounds.  Lancaster County, PA Deed Book D, Page 550.  Note: Patrick Work paid the same amount for this land as James Galbraith (1703-1786) paid to John Galbraith (1714-1768).  Patrick's brother James Work married Janet Galbraith, daughter of John Galbraith (1714-1768) & Dorcas Galbraith. Both James & Patrick were Lt. Colonels in the French & Indian War.

16 June 1767
The Pennsylvania Gazette announces a Sheriff Sale in Donegal Township of 400 acres the 10th day of July next "whereon are erected dwelling houses, barns, Hop kiln, also a  Hop yard, a good meadow, and more may be made, a good orchard, the whole is under good fence, the greatest part of the land will bring Hemp, and is well timbered, and is pleasantly situated on the Bank of the Susquehanna River; there is a good stream of water running thru the farm, for any kind of water works .... late the property of Patrick Work, and taken in execution by John Zass, Sheriff." Source: Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia), June 16, 1767.

2 Sep 1767*
John Barr, Esq.. High Sheriff transfers 383 acres + allowances (Patrick Work's property) to highest bidder Samuel Scott (1697-1777) for 1,950 pounds.  Lancaster County, PA Deed Book N, Page 11. Samuel was one of the wealthiest men in Lancaster County.

21 Apr 1777*
Samuel Scott (1697-1777), late of Rapho Twp., by his will, granted one-half of his 383 acres + allowances to his brother Alexander Scott and nephew Samuel Scott, son of his deceased brother Abraham Scott.  The will stipulated that should Alexander die without issue, then his share should be given to Abraham Scott's son Josiah Scott. Lancaster County, PA Will Book C, Page 469, will probated 21 Apr 1777.

13 Apr 1784
Melchior Brenneman (1714-1768) conveys to John Haldeman (1753-1832) two tracts of land to the south of Locust Grove Estate.  One tract of 172.5 acres descended from a 210 acre patent taken out by George Miranda in 1738. This patent was to the immediate south of the Galbraith patent.  A second, smaller tract of 4.5 acres was part of a patent taken out by David McClure in 1738.  This patent was to the immediate south of Miranda’s land.  Both patents, like Galbraith’s bordered on the eastern bank of the Susquehanna. 

20 Sep 1785*
Alexander Scott, et al. (Alexander Scott of Hempfield Twp. & wife Sarah, Josiah Scott of Washington Co., Samuel Scott of Donegal Co. and wife Rachel) grant to Samuel Patterson (1727-1820)  of Rapho Twp their one half of the 383 acres + allowances being one half the same property conveyed to Samuel Scott (1697-1777), deceased.  Source: Lancaster Co., PA Deed Book DD, Page 206.  This deed indicates “Bartram Galbraith (1738-1804) hath heretofore recovered by due course of law one moiety or half part of the aforesaid tract of land with the appurtenances against them the said Alexander Scott & Samuel Scott after the death of the said Samuel Scott (1697-1777) the Testator."

20 Sep 1785*
Samuel Patterson (1727-1820) of Rapho Twp. granted his one half of the 383+ acres to John Haldeman (1753-1832) of Donegal Township as recorded in Lancaster Co., PA Deed Book DD, Page 373.

5 Nov 1785
A Writ of Petition issued out of Lancaster, PA Court of Common Pleas pertaining to land jointly held by John Haldeman (1753-1832) and Bartram Galbraith (1738-1804) in Donegal Twp. measuring 451 acres + allowances.  Writ covering 246 acres + allowance, part of the larger tract as in proceedings of said Court of the Term 1786.  This information and metes and bounds of the latter tract being provided in Deed Book 7-636.

Jan 1786
Survey for Bartram Galbraith (1738-1804) (205 acres + allowances) and John Haldeman (1753-1832) (246 acres + allowances).  It was carried out based on a Nov 1785 Writ of Petition issued out of the Lancaster County, PA Court of Common Pleas.  Following the survey, in a Feb 1786 term the Court declared "John Haldeman vs Bartram Galbreath (sic) Partition made. Judgment that the partition made be and remain firm and stable forever."

1790
John Haldeman (1753-1832) erected a grist mail and distillery (At first, lower part of the mill was used as a distillery) near the mouth of Conoy Creek and acquired a large estate.   Source: Conoy Indian Town & Peter Bezaillion", David H. Landis, Papers Read Before the Lancaster County Historical Society, Vol. 37, No. 5, Lancaster, PA, 1933.

1792
Reading Howell Map published (includes Locust Grove Estate Vicinity).

1798
John Haldeman (1753-1832), prior to this year erected a distillery. Extensive pens were connected with the distillery for fattening swine on the refuse grain. Source: “History of Lancaster County, PA, with Biographical Sketches of many of its Pioneers and Prominent Men,” Franklin Ellis & Samuel Evans, Philadelphia, 1883 (reprint), Page 753.

Oct 1798
A Pennsylvania Direct Tax mentions only one stone building at Locust Grove Estate in 1798, the mill built by John Haldeman. The tax lists the following buildings owned by John on properties acquired from His father-in-law at present day Billmeyer Quarries: his residence, new building adjoining, stone kitchen, smoke house, baik (sic) building, barn, mill, still house, saw mill, etc. The property at Billmeyer was known as the Haldeman Homestead Farm, where the Haldeman Cemetery along Route 441 was originally located. See Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society Newsletter, May 2021.

1804-1813
John Haldeman's oldest son John Brenneman Haldeman (1779-1836) moves to Locust Grove Estate c1804 to assume responsibility for operations. His father intended him to be the future family patriarch. John decides he prefers farming and returns to the Haldeman Family Homestead. His brother Henry Haldeman (1787-1849) takes over operations. Source: "Haldeman And Brenneman Families of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania And Their Connections, the Steman, Snyder and Lindemuth Families With Notes on the Early Settlers of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania"; Horace L. Haldeman (1847-1920); c1900 (Printed for Private Distribution), Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society Archives.

1811
Federal Style edition to the Haldeman Mansion completed.

29 Oct 1811
Henry Haldeman marries Francis Steman.

12 Aug 1812
Professor Samuel Steman Haldeman (1812-1880) a noted scientist, author, and naturalist was born to Henry Haldeman (1787-1849) and his wife Frances Steman Haldeman (1794-1826).

1813
"Bainbridge was originally founded by Henry & John B. Haldeman (1779-1836) in 1813. The latter’s contribution included the purchase of a “(Martin) Shaffer Farm. Their land contributions were north of Race Street. These lands were on the portion of the Logan Patent that descended thru Henry Miller (Lancaster County, PA Deed Book GG, Page 238). They laid out their town “on the north side of the main street leading eastward from the river at the railroad station”. Bainbridge was enlarged by adding Centreville, which bordered on the south side of Race Street. Two blocks to the South of Race Street was Market Street, which ran due east to the Stackstown road, paralleling Race Street, which extended to the Stackstown road, as well. The original Bainbridge had its own Market Street. See the 1875 Atlas. Centreville was on part of the land that descended from the Logan patent thru Michael Graff, thru Bartram Galbraith (1738-1804), thru Jacob Hoffman to John Siple and John Smith Jr. The latter purchased the land that was to become Centreville in 1813. Source: “History of Lancaster County, PA, with Biographical Sketches of many of its Pioneers and Prominent Men,” Franklin Ellis & Samuel Evans, Philadelphia, 1883 (reprint), Page 754.

27 Mar 1813
John B. Haldeman and Henry Haldeman are respectively mentioned as distiller and Miller in Conoy Township. Lancaster County, PA Deed Book 7, Page 629.

7 Sep 1813*
John Haldeman (1753-1832) of Columbia, PA and wife Mary granted to son Henry Haldeman (1787-1849) of Donegal Twp., Deed Book 7-636. Tract containing 8.25 acres, being part of the above mentioned 246 acres + allowances that John Haldeman (1753-1832) received out of the 451 acres + allowances that he and Bartram Galbraith (1738-1804) held jointly and was divided among them by a Writ of Petition issued 5 Nov 1785. This small tract contained a grist & saw mill. 

1817
Melish-Whiteside Map published (includes Locust Grove Estate & Vicinity).

4 Dec 1832
The Pennsylvania Canal's Eastern Division completed.  It opened in 1833, ran 43 miles (69 km) along the east side of the Susquehanna River between Columbia and Duncan's Island at the mouth of the Juniata River. The state originally planned a canal between the Union Canal at Middletown to the Juniata. However, the plan changed in 1828, when the state opted to extend the Eastern Division further south to connect with the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad at Columbia.  Source: "The Amazing Pennsylvania Canals, 150th Anniversary Edition"; William H. Shank; York, Pennsylvania: American Canal and Transportation Center; 1986.

1838
West Donegal Township created from Donegal Township.   It became the "local" administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

1842
Conoy Township created out of West Donegal Township.   It became the "local" administrative territory covering present day Locust Grove Estate.

5 Apr 1849*
Henry Haldeman (1787-1849) granted by will to son Cyrus S. Haldeman (1825-1892) “all the real estate on which I now reside containing about one hundred and seventy acres, more or less, with all the tools and fixtures belonging to the mill and the distillery”. Source: Lancaster County, PA Will Book U, Page 688.  When Cyrus S. and his wife Elizabeth transferred this property to Horace Haldeman (1820-1883) in 1853, the deed included a description of the descent of the property from Henry to Cyrus S.  In this document, the property was indicated to have 189 acres, 40 perches neat measure.  Henry's will was mentioned as having been dated 8 Oct 1846.  Source:  Lancaster County, PA Deed Book A, Volume 8, Page 628.

1850
Scott Map published (includes Locust Grove Estate & Vicinity).

1 Oct 1850
Harrisburg, Portsmouth, Mount Joy & Lancaster Railroad branch opens between Columbia and Royalton. Source:  Pennsylvania Rail Road Chronology, 1850, March 2005 Edition.

1852
John Haldeman and Cyrus S. Haldeman (1825-1892) announce sales of their adjoining properties, including Locust Grove's mansion, grist mill and distillery. These advertisements are placed in the first edition of a new journal "Agriculture, Horticulture & Rural Economy", Vol. 1, Lancaster, PA, 1852, which was edited by their brother Samuel Steman Haldeman (1812-1880).

15 Jul 1853
Locust Grove surveyed for Horace Haldeman (1820-1883).

19 Jul 1853*
Cyrus S. Haldeman (1825-1892) of Conoy Township and wife Elizabeth granted to Horace Haldeman (1820-1883) of the United States Army for the sum of $30,000 all that certain mill, still house, messuage and tract of land known as Locust Grove containing 189 acres and forty perches neat measure.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book A, Volume 8, Page 628.

1 Jun 1855
Sheriff Sale Announcement of Cyrus S. Haldeman's (1825-1892) Locust Grove property, including the mansion, grist mill and other building on 170 acres more or less. Source: Examiner & Herald, Lancaster, PA; June 1, 1855.

2 Oct 1855*
Horace Haldeman (1820-1883) of the United States Army and wife Ann B. Haldeman granted to John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) of Conoy Township "All that certain Mill, Still House, Messuage and tract of lands known as Locust Grove for 189 acres & 40 perches neat measure, exclusive of what lies between the rail road and the river.  Lancaster County Deed Book K, Volume 8, Page 459.

1856
John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) erected a steam sawmill at Locust Grove, near the mouth of Conoy Creek.  In 1859, it became the property of (his father-in-law) John Wiley (1800-1870). A water mill stood on the site of this long prior to its erection.  Source: “History of Lancaster County, PA, with Biographical Sketches of many of its Pioneers and Prominent Men,” Franklin Ellis & Samuel Evans, Philadelphia, 1883 (reprint), Page 753.

1 Aug 1857
John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) of Conoy Township and his wife Susannah (1825-1915, nee Wiley) granted to Susannah's father John Wiley (1800-1870) of East Donegal Township 24 acres and fifty perches neat measure being part of the same premises and tract of land Cyrus S. Haldeman (1825-1892) and his wife granted unto Horace Haldeman (1820-1883) who with his wife Ann B. granted unto John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903).  Source: Lancaster County, PA deed Book Q, Volume 8, Page 424.

28 Jul 1858*
John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) and wife Susannah (1825-1915, nee Wiley) of Conoy Township granted to  John Wiley (1800-1870) of East Donegal Township 149 acres and 13 perches more or less neat measure part of property Horace Haldeman (1821-1903) and wife sold to John Hoffman Smith.  This property description includes a steam saw mill and requirement that one-third of the mansion house be reserved for Margaret Armstrong Haldeman (1804-1867), second wife of Henry Haldeman (1787-1849), during her lifetime.  Source: Lancaster County Deed Book T, Volume 8, Page 194.

1864
Locust Grove & Vicinity, a portion of Conoy & West Donegal Townships, Lancaster County, PA Atlas.

14 Jul 1871*
John Wiley's (1800-1870) will directed his three executors, two being his sons, to sell his real estate at public auction.  His two sons Henry H. Wiley (1832-1897) and John E. Wiley (1834-1911) were high bidders and acquired ownership of the 132 acres and 133 perches more or less, being part of a larger tract which John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) and his wife Susannah (1825-1915, nee Wiley) sold to John Wiley (1800-1870).  John Wiley (1800-1870), deceased, of Conoy Township, wrote his will 5 May 1870.  It was proven 14 Jun 1870.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book C, Volume 10, Page 446.  See Lancaster County, PA Will Book AA, Page 40.

1875
Locust Grove & Vicinity, a portion of Conoy Township, Lancaster County, PA Atlas.

10 Sep 1880

SS Haldeman died of a heart attack in his mansion at Marietta, PA.  Lloyd Mifflin (1846-1921), artist of landscape and portraiture, also known as “America’s greatest sonneteer” wrote a sonnet in his memory.

31 Jul 1883
John E. Wiley (1834-1911) of Conoy Township granted his 1/2 share "of all that certain grist mill, steam saw mill, steam distillery, dwelling houses … tract of land containing 173 acres and 63 perches to his brother Henry H. Wiley (1832-1897) of Marietta having descended to them thru their father John Wiley (1800-1870) being composed of two tracts one having been received from John Hoffman Smith (1821-1903) and his wife as recorded in Lancaster County Deed Book Q, Volume 8, Page 424 and the other in Deed Book T, Volume 8, Page 195.  Source: Lancaster County Deed Book A, Volume 12, Page 299-302.

1899
Locust Grove & Vicinity Map

1 Apr 1899
Margaret J. Wiley McAllister (1838-), Executrix for estate of Henry H. Wiley (1832-1897) on 1 Apr 1899 granted onto Benjamin F. Hoffman (1863-1935) a tract which was the same as (or included) all that certain messuage and plantation and tract of land called Locust Grove on which is erected a mansion house, stone grist mill, old distillery and other buildings situated in Conoy Township.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book M, Volume 31, Page 61. (1863-1935).

Mar 1904
Historic Susquehanna flooding of Locust Grove.  Source: “Souvenir; Bainbridge Ice and Flood; March 8th, 1904 (including Middletown, Red Hill, Falmouth, Collins, Locust Grove, Billmeyer, Shock’s Mills, Safe Harbor and York Haven)”.

13 Nov 1911
Red Carpet Wedding at the Haldeman Mansion. Source: Middletown Press & Journal.

1933
Lancaster County Historic Society Marker placed at the intersection of Bainbridge’s S 2nd St. and Locust Grove Rd “In Memory of the Conoy and Peter Bezaillion a noted French Trader and Indian Interpreter whose trail to this place is known as Peter’s Road was used as a boundary line of five of the original Lancaster County Townships.”

9 Jun 1933*
George Longaker (1886-1960) and wife Anna S. of Pottstown, Montgomery County, PA  granted to John Orth Trustee in Bankruptcy of Benjamin F. Hoffman (1863-1935) all that certain messuage and plantation and tract of land called Locust Grove on which is erected a mansion house, stone grist mill, old distillery and other ... containing 40 acres and ninety perches neat measure being the same premises which Margaret J. Wiley McAllister, Executrix for estate of Henry H. Wiley on 1 Apr 1899 granted onto Benjamin F. Hoffman.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book M, Volume 31, Page 63. Note:  More research s needed to determine by what means George & Anna Longaker held title to the Haldeman Mansion property.

1934
Growing Up in the Haldeman Mansion from 1934-1950.  Memoirs of Loman L. McCurdy (c1930-2009).  See "This Place Matters", Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society website.

11 Jun 1934*
John Orth, Trustee in Bankruptcy of Benjamin F. Hoffman (1863-1935) conveyed to J. E. Baker Company all that certain messuage and plantation and tract of land called Locust Grove on which is erected a mansion house, stone grist mill, old distillery and other ... containing 40 acres and ninety perches neat measure. Lancaster Co., PA Deed Book S, Volume 31, Page 539.

10 May 1940
Aerial photo of Locust Grove depicting features as recalled in the Memoir of Loman L. McCurdy (1930-2009) who's family lived in the mansion 1934-50. Source:  Penn Pilot. Historical Aerial Photographs of Pennsylvania, Penn Pilothttps://www.arcgis.com.

31 Dec 1941*
J. E. Baker Company Stockholders' Trustees granted to the J. E. Baker Company all that certain messuage and plantation and tract of land called Locust Grove on which is erected a mansion house, stone grist mill, old distillery and other ... containing 40 acres and ninety perches neat measure.  Being the same premises which J. E. Baker Company by its deed dated December 31, 1941 intended to be recorded. in trust to sell.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book M, Volume 35, Page 102.

Mar 1948
Pennsylvania State Archaeologist John Whitthoft and associate archaeologist Sam S. Farver found a Pictograph (large flat river stone etching) possibly related to the Conoy Indians sanctioned settling at Locust Grove. On one side was etched a ceremonial calumet pipe and fire pit and on the opposite side what appeared to be a seated Native American with five upright feathers projecting from his head, which they observed was a head dress "well known in Seneca and other Six Nations ethnology".  Source: “A Lancaster County Pictograph”, Pennsylvania Archaeologist, Vol. XIX, No. 3-4.

2 Mar 1951
J. E. Baker Company granted to William H. Bernhisel (1920-2009) and wife Elsie M. (nee Derr) of East Donegal Township all that certain tract of land with a two and one-half (story) stone dwelling house ... known as Locust Grove containing 2.648 acres being part of Tract No. 2 described in Lancaster County, PA Deed Book M, Volume 35, Page 102.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book K, Volume 41, Page 209.

1957
Aerial photo of Locust Grove Estate. Source:  Penn Pilot. Historical Aerial Photographs of Pennsylvania, Penn Pilothttps://www.arcgis.com.

27 Dec 1963*
William H. Bernhisel (1920-2009) and wife Elsie M. (nee Derr) of York County granted to Christian E. McMurtrie of Lancaster Township, Lancaster County, PA all that certain tract of land with a two and one-half (story) stone dwelling house ... known as Locust Grove containing 2.648 acres.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book G, Volume 53, Page 24.

27 Dec 1963*
Christian E. McMurtrie of Lancaster Township, Lancaster County, PA granted to the J. E. Baker Company all that certain tract of land with a two and one-half (story) stone dwelling house ... known as Locust Grove containing 2.648 acres.  Source: Lancaster County, PA Deed Book G, Volume 53, Page 28.

1967
A group of interested local citizens formed The Haldeman Society to help prevent further deterioration of the historic Haldeman Mansion and adjacent structures.

1 Jan 1967
Conoy Town was recognized by the dedication of a Pennsylvania Historic marker placed along Route 441, by Conoy Creek’s west bank.

30 Aug 1967
The J. E. Baker Company rented the Locust Grove property to the Haldeman Society for $1.00 per year. The project supported by the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County.

1971
Aerial photo of Locust Grove Estate.

3 Aug 1977

Locust Grove (the Haldeman Mansion Property) was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The U.S. Dept. of Interior's National Park Service assigned broad preservation significance to the property, spanning “American History, Architecture, Archaeology and Science". This national status included the Haldeman Mansion, Summer Kitchen, Conoy town and Cemetery (parts of) and the Shenks Ferry Village.

25 Dec 1983*
J. E. Baker Company granted to the Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society for $1.00 the property known as Locust Grove, 2.648 acres, with stipulations it be used as an historic site open to at reasonable times to the general public and given its Native American heritage, approval be attained for any excavations. .Lancaster County Deed Book I88, Page 431.

21 Sept 1991

Pennsylvania Historical Marker was dedicated to Professor Samuel Steman Haldeman. It is located along Route 441 to the north of Locust Grove Estate.

2010
Aerial photo of Locust Grove Estate. Source:  Penn Pilot. Historical Aerial Photographs of Pennsylvania, Penn Pilothttps://www.arcgis.com.

26 Jun 2018
Professor Samuel Steman Haldeman (1812-1880) recognized  as one of 41 men and women who shaped our state’s environmental heritage by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. He joined such influential notables as John J. Audubon (1785-1851), Gifford Pinchot (1865-1964) and Rachael Carson (1907-1964). He is one of two selected from his generation. (See http://www.dep.pa.gov/Citizens/EnvironmentalEducation). The Professor has been recognized as one of 41 men and women who shaped our state’s environmental heritage. He joins such influential notables as John J. Audubon ((1785-1851), Gifford Pinchot (1865-1964) and Rachael Carson ((1907-1964). He is one of two selected from his generation.

20 Aug 2019*

The Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society for $1.00 was granted full ownership of Locust Grove Estate by Magnesita Refractories Company, successor to J. E. Baker Company, with the same stipulation as the previous on excavations. Source: Lancaster County Deed 6474930.

8 May 2020
The U.S. Department of the Interior's National Park Service recognized The Locust Grove (Native American) Archaeological District encompassing Locust Grove Estate and three neighboring properties by placing them on the National Register of Historic Places. Recognizing the District as a "persistent place", a location attracting long-term, repeated use by Native Americans. Together, this approval and the 1977 recognition assign the following significance to the Locust Grove property: “Archaeology; Prehistoric;

History-Aboriginal; Exploration/Settlement; Science; Social History; and Architecture.”

Prepared by Dale Good, former Society Board Member.

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